Statistics from the State Department of Health show at least 3,850 children got married in New York between 2000 and 2010. Around 84% were young girls marrying older men, according to the National Organization for Women.

Human Rights Watch says girls who marry before 18 are more likely to drop out of school, live in poverty and be victims of domestic violence.

The bill is now before the Assembly. If it passes there, it would go to Governor Cuomo for his signature or a veto. The governor has previously announced support for raising the marital age of consent; however, it does not appear he has commented on this specific proposal.